Griffiths D, Lambert P & Bihagen E (2014) Measuring the Potential Power Elite in the UK and Sweden. European Societies, 16 (5), pp. 742-762. https://doi.org/10.1080/14616696.2014.941376.Quangos Revised: The Social Networks of the Public Elite.PTA-026-27-2102

Abstract:

This paper proposes a methodology for using survey data to understand the composition of elites, through analysing the pool of potential members. An occupational-based measure of &lsquo;potential power elite' (PPE) is created and compared with other measures of occupational advantage. It is argued that this measure can be utilised to explore if the processes causing certain social groups to be under-represented in elite positions are around selection or the population recruited from. We provide analysis of elite positions in the UK and Sweden, demonstrating differences in terms of the potential pool of elite members and the occupational histories of people of those employed in roles associated with elite recruitment. We argue that understanding the composition of the PPE provides a more nuanced analysis of the processes of meritocracy in accessing positions of power and social influence.

This item has been embargoed for a period. During the embargo please use the Request a Copy feature at the foot of the Repository record to request a copy directly from the author. You can only request a copy if you wish to use this work for your own research or private study. This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published in European Societies on 29 July 2014, available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/10.1080/14616696.2014.941376

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